While the Turkey-PKK peace process may pave a path for a working relationship between the PYD and the Syrian opposition, it does not pacify the competitive tension between the KNC and the PYD, and more broadly between Barzani and Ocalan respectively. Without a nonviolence agreement in place, the entrance of Barzani’s trained force into Syria could spark clashes between his force and the YPG. The risk of Kurdish infighting is especially high over the key Kurdish city of Qamishli, where Barzani-affiliated parties have their strongest showing, and oil fields in nearby Rumeylan. Even if the Turkey-PKK peace process creates opportunities for the PYD to work with the Syrian opposition, internal Kurdish divisions may render the Kurdish factor to be yet another conflict driver in Syria.
Posted on: Sat, 27 Jul 2013 00:49:01 +0000
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